A Taste of Basilicata in Brooklyn

New York City’s artistic landscape is about to experience a unique infusion of Italian culture. Teatro dei Calanchi, an innovative theatrical project originating from the clay-rich terrain of Pisticci, Basilicata, is set to make its debut in the city. This special intervention will be hosted by NYC Motherships, an independent artistic space and creative residence curated by Sol Kjøk, known for fostering experimental and community-driven art.

monthly Salons: A Platform for International Exchange

The performance is scheduled for Sunday, May 11th, as part of the Monthly Salons series. These events are designed to connect international artists with local communities through a diverse range of artistic expressions, including performances, installations, and interdisciplinary experiments. The Salons provide a vital platform for cultural exchange and artistic exploration, reflecting New York’s commitment to global artistic dialog.

Prometheus Reimagined: A Performance Rooted in the Earth

Daniele Onorati, the founder of Teatro dei Calanchi, will present a poignant excerpt from his latest project, a contemporary reimagining of the Prometheus myth. This “post-mythological” rewriting gives voice to nature, portraying it as a wounded yet sentient entity. Following this, a presentation will introduce the audience to the essence of Teatro dei Calanchi, a festival deeply rooted in the raw earth of the Lucan Calanche. The intervention will culminate in a live sound performance using the Oodoo, an experimental musical instrument crafted entirely from the clay of the Calanche di Pisticci. This instrument embodies the festival’s commitment to using local materials and celebrating the unique sounds of the landscape.

It is an honour to bring a fragment of Basilicata to a place that celebrates art as a contemporary and community ritual. The dialogue between landscape, body and sound that was born in the calanche finds a powerful resonance in Brooklyn’s creative space.
Daniele Onorati, Founder of Teatro dei Calanchi

Building Bridges: Future Collaborations on the Horizon

This initiative represents an independent connection between territories and artists, marking a notable first step towards future artistic collaborations and cultural exchanges between Teatro dei Calanchi and international entities, starting with New York. Such collaborations are increasingly significant in today’s globalized art world, fostering innovation and cross-cultural understanding. According to a recent UNESCO report, international artistic collaborations have increased by 30% in the last five years, highlighting the growing importance of these exchanges.

The Power of Place: Land Art and Environmental Consciousness

teatro dei Calanchi’s work aligns with the growing trend of land art and environmentally conscious artistic practices. By using the natural landscape as both inspiration and medium, the festival raises awareness about the importance of preserving our planet’s natural resources. This approach resonates with audiences worldwide,as environmental concerns become increasingly pressing. For example, artists like Andy Goldsworthy have long used natural materials to create ephemeral sculptures that highlight the beauty and fragility of the environment.